When a transfer of title uses a written instrument, what is it called?

In real estate, when a transfer of title occurs through a written instrument, it is referred to as a conveyance. This term specifically relates to the legal process of transferring ownership of property from one party to another through a deed or other formal documentation. The conveyance outlines the details of the transfer, including the parties involved, the property description, and any terms associated with the transfer.

The significance of a conveyance lies in its role in clearly documenting the change in ownership, providing legal evidence of the transaction, and safeguarding the rights of both the buyer and the seller. It serves to ensure that the transfer adheres to applicable laws and regulations, making it a crucial aspect of real estate transactions. In this context, the use of a written instrument reinforces the formal nature of the document and its acceptance in court, should disputes arise.

Other terms like transaction may describe the broader activity involved in the buying or selling process but do not specifically denote the act of transferring title. Similarly, agreement generally refers to a mutual understanding between parties, while grant typically denotes a specific type of conveyance where rights are transferred, but it is not as comprehensive as the term conveyance itself. Hence, conveyance is the correct choice in the context of the question.